10 Tree Stand Safety Tips: Safely Climb & Descend

Follow these tree stand safety tips to ensure you return home after each and every hunt this deer season.

Unfortunately, statistics have shown that tree stand accidents are currently the number one cause of hunter-related injury every season. In fact, it’s estimated that one out of every three deer hunters who hunt from elevated stands are likely to experience a fall at some point in their lives that will result in serious injury. In order to avoid these senseless and often tragic accidents, follow these important safety tips when hanging, climbing, hunting or descending from a tree stand this fall. Remember, always follow your tree stand's owners manual before taking your tree stand into the woods.

Tip 1: Be sure to select the proper tree before hanging a fixed-position stand or using a climbing stand. The tree should be alive and healthy without any noticeable rot or damage. Your tree should also meet the size specifications and restrictions set by the tree stand company.

Tip 2: NEVER hunt from a tree stand without a secure and high-quality safety harness. It only takes one fall to suffer a serious injury or permanently end your hunting career.

Tip 3: A strong and sturdy safety rope (or strap) should be attached to both your harness and the tree to prevent you from falling more than 12-inches.

Tip 4: Continuously monitor and inspect your safety harness and tree stands before and during the season to check for wear and tear or possible damage.

Tip 5: When hunting from a fixed position or hang-on stand always inspect the ladder steps and tree stand attachments to make sure everything is tightly secured to the tree.

Tip 6: Always use a haul line to pull-up your gear, bow or unloaded firearm. Never climb with anything in your hands or attached to your back. Before climbing down, utilize the haul line to safely lower all of your equipment on the opposite side of the tree.

Tip 7:  Be sure to let family and friends know the exact tree stand location that you’re currently hunting. When at all possible, hunt with a buddy and always carry a communication device like a cell-phone or walkie-talkie that can easily be reached on your body at anytime.

Tip 8: Follow the 3-Point rule, which says always have 3-points of contact to your steps or ladder when climbing or descending from your stand.

Tip 9: Be aware of slippery and hazardous climbing conditions that may result from rain, sleet, snow or ice and take the appropriate precautions.    

Tip 10: When using a climbing stand, make slow, steady and even movements of no more than 12 inches at a time. You should also make sure the climbing section and platform of your stand are attached together by some type of safety cord or rope.
 
Follow these tree stand tips and you’ll return safely home to your family and loved ones after each and every hunt. Good luck & good hunting!